The BC SPCA believes that dogs kept for any purpose related to recreational or competitive mushing or commercial sled dog tourism must be provided with the Five Freedoms for the duration of their lives, including breeding dogs and dogs that have been retired from activity.

Sled dog guardians must house, train and handle their animals humanely and ensure they are socialised to encourage appropriate behaviours toward people and other animals.

Whether used for racing, tourism, weight pulls or recreational sledding, dogs must be physically fit and conditioned for the activity they are being asked to perform. While these activities can provide dogs with a suitable source of exercise, contributing to their physical and emotional health, a dog’s welfare must not be compromised due to overexertion.

Accordingly, mushers must monitor the welfare of their dogs during training and competition, making responsible decisions regarding their dogs’ care. Mushers must not subject their dogs to endurance competitions for which they are not prepared and must protect their dogs from inclement weather that can be expected to cause suffering.

Particular attention should be paid to the welfare of non-northern breeds, as they are more vulnerable to the effects of cold weather.

Sled dog racing must be carried out under standard rules that are strictly enforced, with management guidelines and sufficient veterinary input to guarantee the animals will receive responsible care and humane treatment.

DEFINITIONS

Five Freedoms:

The BC SPCA’s Five Freedoms describe conditions that must be fulfilled in order to prevent the suffering of domesticated animals in human care. We acknowledge that absolute provision of these freedoms may not be possible, but we expect all animal guardians to strive to provide them.

The BC SPCA’s Five Freedoms are:

1. Freedom from hunger and thirst

2. Freedom from pain, injury, and disease

3. Freedom from distress

4. Freedom from discomfort

5. Freedom to express behaviours that promote well-being.

Physical health:

The status of an animal’s physiological function. Good physical health is characterized by the absence of clinical signs of disease and evidence of optimum body functions for all systems.

Emotional health:

The degree to which an animal is experiencing either positive or negative feelings. Good emotional health is characterized by the presence of positive feelings (e.g. pleasure, relaxation) and the absence of negative feelings (e.g. anxiety and fear). Emotional health is evident from an animal’s behaviour and physiology. Syn: Psychological health;

Emotional well-being

Approved by the Board of Directors – February 6th, 2010